But on Thursday night the 40-year-old was welcomed back into the fold, even getting his hands on the coveted cup again, as the West Coast side of 2006 provided a guard of honour for the current team before the Domain Stadium clash with Essendon.

Chick was flanked in a lap of honour by the Eagles' long-time star back pocket David Wirrpanda, while 2006 Norm Smith medallist Embley walked alongside the West Coast captain of that flag-winning team, Chris Judd.

Daniel Kerr, another star midfielder of that team who has battled off-field issues, was seen walking the boundary with his children, while Ash Hansen and Tyson Stenglein returned from the eastern states for the reunion.

The celebratory mood was tempered a little early in Thursday night's game, as the bottom-of-the-table Bombers kicked the first two quick goals. But by half-time West Coast was back in control.